The magnetic stud finder is a freely-moving magnetized rod encased in clear plastic. Before electronic stud finders came along, these were the way to go. Since drywall is affixed to studs with metal fasteners, find the metal and you've found the stud. Move the finder along the wall with the finder positioned so that the notches are to the side. When the rod is perpendicular to the wall, you've found metal--and a stud. Magnetic finders are a great supplement to electronic finders.
Magnetic Stud Finder
By Lee Wallender, About.com
Magnetic Stud Finder
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